Razorbacks Celebrate Special Day Through Service

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – To commemorate National Student-Athlete Day on Thursday, April 6, the Razorback Student-Athlete Advisory Committee has organized a day of service for student-athletes at the University of Arkansas including multiple appearances to interact with school children throughout the community.

"On a day where we celebrate the commitment and achievements of thousands of collegiate student-athletes academically, athletically and socially, SAAC wanted to take the opportunity to give back to our community and encourage future generations to pursue their dreams," said Marcus Sedberry, assistant athletic director for student-athlete development and administration. "In various appearances and initiatives throughout the community, Razorback student-athletes from multiple sports will have the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of children. Razorback student-athletes share a responsibility to make a difference in the world around them. We are excited about the opportunity they have to engage with kids right here in Arkansas." 

"This is a really cool day for all Razorback student-athletes," SAAC President Taliyah Brooks said. "It gives us a chance to give back to our community and take a moment to appreciate everything we have as Razorbacks."

On Thursday morning as part of the ongoing Project Unify initiative, two women's basketball student-athletes, Keiryn Swenson and Jailyn Mason, and two gymnasts, Lea MacMoyle and Michaela Burton, will visit with kids at McNair Middle School in Fayetteville on "The Life of a Razorback Female Student-Athlete." The student-athletes will talk about what life lessons can be learned through athletics as well as share encouragement to all children about pursuing their interests and dreams. As part of the presentation, students will have the opportunity to ask questions of the Razorback student-athletes.

Later in the day, Razorback student-athletes will be at several local elementary schools for lunch with the grand prize winners in the SAAC sponsored Book Hogs competition. The outreach program encourages students of all ages to read and explore books by creating a fun and friendly competition between students and schools. The program includes interactions with various Razorback student-athletes, admissions to designated athletic events as well as prizes based on participation. As part of the program, men's basketball student-athletes Anton Beard and Arlando Cook will be visiting Leverett Elementary and Butterfield Elementary, respectively. Gymnasts Heather Elswick and Michaele Burton will be attending lunch at Holcomb Elementary.

For more information regarding Razorback Athletics, please visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com.